The Weekend Theater opens its production of "The Metal Children," 7:30 p.m., $12-$16. The play concerns a young-adult lit author who travels to a small town whose school board has banned his book, only to find that the work has inspired chaos among the populace.

Local MC Epiphany hosts Battle of the Bars Part 2. The three-round MC battle features a prize package including $100, a video shoot and studio time for the winner. Downtown Music Hall, 10:30 p.m., $5-$10.

The See and Sea Nanners will ease you into the weekend with rock music, White Water Tavern, 10 p.m., $5.

We're still a ways off from lake weather, but you can check out the new boats and gear at the Arkansas Marine Expo 2013, Statehouse Convention Center, through Sunday, 10 a.m., $5, free for children younger than 12.